Around the Table : The Stories of the Street

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Nov 24, 2016, 11:50 am

By Donal Fallon, Historian

As a social historian, it is the history of so-called ‘ordinary’ people that interests me most. Unfortunately, it is precisely these people who are often missing in our archival collections, and who can fall through the cracks of history. This, of course, shouldn’t be surprising to us. In war and politics, they say history is written by the victors. In every other sphere of life, it is written by those with power and influence. Or, at least it was.

Leonard’s and Sons historic signage.

It is important to say attitudes have shifted in recent decades. Kevin C. Kearns, author of several oral histories of Dublin, including the groundbreaking Dublin Tenement Life, was among the first to tap into the potential of such histories in Dublin. He understood that oral history put ordinary people back into the picture, and filled the gaps. He found researching tenement Dublin provided “an oral historical chronicle of struggle, survival and a splendid triumph of the human spirit.”

Any examination of food in Dublin, now or in the past, is ultimately a study of community

For me, this project as part of The National Neighbourhood, is doing much the same. Through gathering oral history testimonies, and photographing the rapidly changing urban landscape of north inner-city Dublin, we are trying to capture that same “splendid triumph”. Any examination of food in Dublin, now or in the past, is ultimately a study of community. Stew houses in inner-city flat complexes and charitable institutions that feed the poor have featured among the stories of great resilience. A study of food in Dublin isn’t a totally nostalgic trip into the so-called Rare Oul’ Times, indeed it is as often about the absence of food, as the presence of it.

Condren’s Fruit and Veg.

To date, my contribution to this project has largely involved interviewing individuals about their own memories of food and its important place in their lives. I spoke to Terry Crosbie of the Stoneybatter and Smithfield People’s History Project, who recounted working in inner-city slaughterhouses, which are now a relic of the past themselves. The very idea of a slaughterhouse operating in the inner-city would surprise younger Dubliners, but the sights and smells that came with it were once common. In a difficult and physical working environment, what emerged most from the interview was the strong sense of camaraderie between those who worked there.

This project can also shine a light on the important social history of familiar places, indeed places so familiar to us that we can walk by them without a second glance. Capturing the historic buildings, signage and markers of the north inner-city is important in these days of massive redevelopment. There are precious few pictures of the fish markets, demolished in 2005, and it’s important to think about this project as capturing a moment in time now.

Moore Street fruit and vegetables, alongside a demonstration.

Tomorrow, today will be history. Remembering that, this project is engaging with young people as well as those who have lived and worked in the area for generations. A snapshot of what Dublin children are eating today (primarily a Chinese takeaway favourite known as ‘Spicebags’, for the curious) or how they think about food will no doubt interest the researchers of the future. Likewise, encouraging young Dubliners to think of their homeplaces as communities with long histories is important in giving them a sense of civic pride.

What does food mean to us today, in the days when ALDI and LIDL dominate streets were markets were once found?

This project is capturing a moment in Dublin, and a city in transition. What does food mean to us today, in the days when ALDI and LIDL dominate streets were markets were once found? It is also, I firmly believe, giving people a belief and confidence in themselves and their stories, and an awareness that it is the everyday people who turn the wheels of industry and who have made Dublin the city that she is. While food is the topic we are interrogating, what is emerging is in many ways a study of community and identity.

3 Comments

My father (1922-2013) used to tell me about the slaughterhouse behind Camden Street, somewhere near Pleasants Place? He went to school in Synge street and he and the other boys used to go at lunch to watch the activities there.

Fascinating idea. This model could be reproduced in every community too. And since globally environments and cultures are changing so fast, and identity I believe is becoming even more crucial, this work presents a perfect vehicle to get there, while exploring food and our relationship to it. One of the most pressing issues we face in our time. I will follow with interest.

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What People are saying

It has allowed us as a Cultural Institution to connect with communities, and to add their unique stories to the Library’s Collections where they will be preserved and made available to future generations. This project is really something to be proud of.

SANDRA COLLINS

The National Library

I have many memorable moments…the project was a great experience for me. It was fantastic and inspiring and I am proud of my own part in the creative and directive process and honoured to walk away with new friendships in an amazing community.

Hugh Brown

Artist

Cllr ANDREW KEEGAN

People Before Profit Alliance

By bringing local groups to cultural buildings in the capital and engaging with local schools on projects that would inspire them to understand the nature and culture around them, you’d have to say it was a great success and I think more good things will come from this.

HEATHER HUMPHREYS TD

Minister for Arts, Heritage, Regional, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs

PHIL KINGSTON

The Abbey Theatre

Culture is an important part in building neighbourhood spirit and it is an ambition of Dublin City Council to continue to give the opportunity for people to learn and participate in the arts in their neighbourhood in all parts of the city.